Experience the ultimate comfort food with this incredibly easy and mouthwatering Panera Mac and Cheese copycat recipe. Indulge in every creamy, cheesy bite, knowing it’s ready in under 30 minutes with readily available ingredients. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a delightful side dish, this recipe brings the beloved Panera taste straight to your kitchen.

Crafting the Perfect Panera-Style White Cheddar Mac and Cheese at Home

There’s something uniquely comforting about a bowl of rich, creamy macaroni and cheese. And if you’re a fan of the iconic White Cheddar Mac and Cheese from Panera Bread, you know that distinct velvety texture and sharp, yet smooth, flavor is truly unmatched. What if we told you that achieving that same restaurant-quality experience at home is not only possible but also surprisingly simple? This stovetop recipe is designed to replicate Panera’s signature dish, delivering tender pasta enveloped in a luxurious white cheddar sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Adore This Panera Mac and Cheese Copycat Recipe

This recipe isn’t just about recreating a favorite; it’s about bringing convenience and gourmet flavor together in one delightful dish. Here’s why this creamy white cheddar mac and cheese deserves a permanent spot in your recipe collection:

• Unbeatable Creaminess: We use a classic roux base combined with whole milk and high-quality white cheddar to achieve that incredibly smooth, restaurant-style sauce that coats every piece of pasta perfectly.
• Lightning Fast: From start to finish, this mac and cheese comes together in less than half an hour. It’s an ideal solution for busy weeknights when you crave something wholesome and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Simple Ingredients: You won’t find any exotic or hard-to-find components here. Just everyday pantry staples transformed into an extraordinary meal.
• Versatile & Customizable: While delicious on its own, this recipe serves as a fantastic base for customization. Add your favorite proteins, vegetables, or spices to make it uniquely yours.
• Family Favorite: Mac and cheese is universally loved, and this Panera copycat version is guaranteed to be a hit with both kids and adults alike. It’s the ultimate comfort food for any occasion.

Essential Ingredients for Your Creamy White Cheddar Mac and Cheese

The secret to Panera’s distinctive mac and cheese lies in the quality and balance of its ingredients. While the list is short and sweet, each component plays a crucial role in achieving that signature flavor and texture. For the full recipe details, please refer to the recipe card below.

• Pasta Shells: We recommend medium pasta shells for their ability to perfectly cradle the creamy sauce, ensuring a delightful bite every time. However, this recipe is incredibly flexible. Feel free to use elbow macaroni, cavatappi, orecchiette, or any other small pasta shape you prefer. Just be sure to use the same amount as specified in the recipe to maintain the right pasta-to-sauce ratio.
• Salted Butter: Real butter is non-negotiable for the rich, foundational flavor of our roux. Avoid margarine, as it can affect both the taste and texture of your cheese sauce.
• All-Purpose Flour: This is the thickening agent that creates our béchamel sauce, the base for our cheese sauce. It helps build that luscious, smooth consistency.
• Garlic Powder (Optional): A subtle hint of garlic powder can elevate the overall flavor profile, adding a warm depth. Some mac and cheese purists prefer to stick to just salt and pepper, and that’s perfectly fine! Another excellent alternative is a pinch of ground mustard, which doesn’t add a mustard flavor but beautifully enhances the cheddar’s sharpness, offering a more traditional macaroni and cheese taste.
• Salt and Pepper: Even with salted butter, additional seasoning is vital. Start with the recommended amounts and always taste and adjust to your preference. If you prefer to avoid visible black specks, white pepper is an excellent substitute that offers similar flavor.
• Whole Milk: For the creamiest, most indulgent mac and cheese, whole milk is your best friend. Its higher fat content contributes significantly to the velvety texture and rich mouthfeel. While 2% milk can be used, expect a slightly less rich result. Skim milk is not recommended as it will result in a much thinner and less satisfying sauce.
• White Cheddar Cheese: The star of the show! For the absolute best melt and creamiest sauce, we strongly advocate for freshly shredded white cheddar cheese. Pre-shredded bagged cheeses often contain anti-caking agents like cellulose or starches, which can prevent them from melting as smoothly and sometimes lead to a slightly grainy texture. While these agents are harmless and commonly used, they can make it harder to achieve that perfectly uniform, silky sauce. Shredding your own cheese, either with a food processor or a hand-crank grater, makes a noticeable difference. A helpful tip: partially freezing the block of cheese for 15-20 minutes before shredding can make it much easier to grate.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make the Best White Cheddar Mac and Cheese

Crafting this delicious Panera-style mac and cheese is a straightforward process, primarily done on the stovetop. Follow these simple steps for a truly memorable meal:

1. Cook the Pasta: In a medium to large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add your chosen pasta shells and cook according to package directions until al dente. This ensures the pasta holds its shape and texture in the sauce. Once cooked, drain the pasta thoroughly and set it aside. Resist the urge to rinse the pasta, as the residual starch helps the sauce cling better.
2. Prepare the Roux: Return the empty pot to the stovetop and melt the salted butter over low heat. Once the butter is fully melted and shimmering, whisk in the all-purpose flour, garlic powder (if using), salt, and pepper. Continue to whisk gently for 1-2 minutes until the mixture forms a smooth, bubbly paste. This is your roux, the essential thickening agent for your cheese sauce. Cooking it for a minute or two helps to cook out the raw flour taste.



3. Build the Béchamel: Increase the heat to medium. Gradually whisk in the whole milk, pouring it in slowly while continuously stirring. Continue whisking constantly for 3-5 minutes as the mixture heats up. The sauce will begin to bubble gently and thicken significantly. Keep whisking until any lumps are completely dissolved and you have a smooth, creamy béchamel sauce.
4. Melt the Cheese: Remove the pot from the heat. This is crucial to prevent the cheese from becoming greasy or clumpy. Add the freshly shredded white cheddar cheese to the hot béchamel sauce. Stir continuously until the cheese is completely melted and incorporated, forming a glossy, velvety cheese sauce.



5. Combine and Serve: Add the drained cooked pasta shells back into the pot with the cheese sauce. Stir everything together gently but thoroughly, ensuring every piece of pasta is coated in the rich, creamy sauce. Serve immediately while warm, optionally garnished with a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper for an extra touch of flavor.

Pro Tips and Frequently Asked Questions

Mastering the art of homemade mac and cheese is easy with a few insider tips and answers to common queries:

Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! While white cheddar gives this recipe its Panera-like authenticity, feel free to experiment with other creamy, meltable cheeses. Orange cheddar will yield a more classic look, while American cheese can enhance the creaminess. Gouda, Monterey Jack, Fontina, or a blend of these can also create fantastic results, adding unique flavor dimensions. Just ensure they are cheeses that melt well.

What kind of pasta is best?

Small to medium pasta shapes are ideal for macaroni and cheese, as they hold the sauce effectively. Shells are a wonderful choice, just like in the original recipe. Elbow macaroni is a classic for a reason, but don’t hesitate to try cavatappi (corkscrew), ditalini, or even small penne. The key is to choose a shape that allows the creamy sauce to coat every nook and cranny.

How can I customize my mac and cheese?

This recipe is a canvas for your culinary creativity! Here are some popular additions:

• Proteins: Diced cooked chicken, crispy bacon bits, cooked ground beef (perhaps seasoned like a Taco Mac and Cheese), or even pulled pork can transform it into a hearty main course.
• Vegetables: Stir in steamed broccoli florets, peas, finely diced bell peppers, sautéed mushrooms, or caramelized onions for added flavor and nutrition.
• Spices & Herbs: A pinch of smoked paprika, a dash of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick, or some fresh chopped chives or parsley can further enhance the taste.
• Texture Boost: For a delightful crunch, sprinkle some toasted breadcrumbs or crushed butter crackers on top before serving.

Should I use freshly grated cheese or pre-shredded?

For the smoothest, creamiest mac and cheese, freshly grated cheese is generally the best option. Most pre-shredded bagged cheeses contain anti-caking agents (like cornstarch, potato starch, or cellulose – which is simply dietary fiber) to prevent clumping. While completely safe to eat, these agents can sometimes make the cheese melt less smoothly and can lead to a slightly grainy sauce. If convenience is paramount, good quality pre-shredded cheese from brands like Tillamook tends to melt better than others. Always consider your preference for texture against the convenience factor.

How to store and reheat white cheddar mac and cheese?

Allow any leftover white cheddar mac and cheese to cool slightly before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate promptly, and it will keep safely for 3-5 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk to restore its creamy consistency. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring frequently, and adding a little milk if it seems dry.

Can I freeze macaroni and cheese?

Yes, white cheddar mac and cheese freezes well! Store cooled mac and cheese in an airtight, freezer-safe container for up to 1-2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the frozen mac and cheese in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a small amount of milk to help re-emulsify the sauce and bring back its creaminess. You can also reheat it in the microwave using the same method.

Serving Suggestions

This Panera Mac and Cheese is incredibly versatile. Serve it as a comforting main course with a simple green salad and crusty bread, or pair it as a rich side dish with:

• Grilled chicken or fish
• Pulled pork sandwiches
• Crispy fried chicken tenders
• Roasted vegetables
• Meatloaf or meatballs

It’s also a fantastic addition to any holiday spread or potluck, guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

Explore More Comforting Recipes

If you loved this Panera Mac and Cheese, you might enjoy exploring other variations and comforting dishes:

• Crock Pot Mac and Cheese
• No Boil Homemade Mac and Cheese
• Baked Mac and Cheese
• Taco Mac and Cheese
• Air Fryer Mac and Cheese
• Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese
• Crock Pot Ham Mac and Cheese
• Instant Pot Macaroni and Cheese
• Easy Cheesy Macaroni Skillet
• KFC Mac and Cheese
• Instant Pot Sausage Mac and Cheese

Panera Mac and Cheese Recipe

Enjoy every creamy bite of this simple Panera White Cheddar Mac and Cheese. The best part is that it’s ready in under a half hour and made with simple ingredients!

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Servings: 6 servings

Author: Brandie Skibinski

Ingredients

• 2 cups medium pasta shells (measured uncooked)
• 4 Tablespoons (½ stick) salted butter
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, or use ground mustard)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon pepper
• 2 cups whole milk
• 3 cups shredded white cheddar cheese (freshly shredded recommended)
• Fresh black pepper (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

1. In a medium/large pot, cook 2 cups medium pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Place the empty pot back on the stove and melt 4 Tablespoons (½ stick) salted butter on low heat.



3. Whisk in ¼ cup all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon garlic powder (if using), ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon pepper. Cook on low heat, whisking continuously until smooth and bubbly, about 1-2 minutes. This creates your roux.



4. Turn the heat to medium and gradually whisk in 2 cups whole milk.



5. Whisk continuously for 3-5 minutes on medium-high heat until the mixture bubbles and the sauce thickens and any lumps are removed.
6. Turn off the heat and add in 3 cups shredded white cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth.



7. Place the drained cooked pasta shells back into the pot and mix thoroughly with the cheese sauce until well combined.



8. Serve warm, topped with fresh black pepper (optional).

Notes

• For more detailed answers to common questions, please refer to the “Pro Tips and Frequently Asked Questions” section above.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore creaminess.
• This mac and cheese can be frozen for 1-2 months in a freezer-safe, airtight container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Course: Side Dish, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Calories: 491kcal | Carbohydrates: 34g | Protein: 21g | Fat: 30g | Sodium: 657mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 5g

Nutritional Disclaimer

Please note that “The Country Cook” is not a registered dietician or nutritionist. All nutritional information provided is an estimate based on average ingredient values. If precise calorie counts and other nutritional data are critical for your dietary needs, we recommend utilizing your preferred online nutritional calculator with the specific brands of ingredients you use, as values can vary.

We hope this detailed guide empowers you to create the most delicious Panera-style White Cheddar Mac and Cheese right in your own kitchen. It’s more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to savor comforting flavors and create lasting memories around the dinner table. Happy cooking!